Tips to re-invest your tax refund into your home

If you’re a home owner, re-investing your refund in your home might be a good idea. Whether you want to do something fun with décor, or smart with repairs, your tax refund could be just what you needed to check a few home improvement items off your to do list.

1. Invest in energy efficiency which will continue to re-pay you. Not only will you save money by making these improvements, but these are items you can list as upgrades to the home when it’s time to sell.

a. Switch to LED lights.

b. Add insulation in the attic – almost every home inspection shows that areas of the attic have missing or misplaced insulation.

c. Upgrade your A/C system – before summer. If last summer you know your unit was on it’s last leg, it might be good to invest in a new unit now. If you wait until it completely breaks down, you might be stuck paying a higher (emergency induced) price. If you buy one before you A/C needs replacement you can investigate and get bids.

d. Programmable thermostats.

e. Windows – Perhaps you can’t do the whole house, but start by doing all the west or south facing windows to be dual paned/energy efficient.

2. Repairs – Keeping these items in good repair will add value by making buyers feel the home has been well maintained and it will look better. These are also items that if a buyer can tell visibly that these items need repair, they will offer less on your home and then after the home inspection they might ask for the repair, so you are essentially double paying for the issue.

a. Have your roof checked out. If you have missing flashing or exposed areas, get ahead of the problem and get your roof repaired. Is your roof more than 15-20 years old? Perhaps now would be a good time to start a replacement program. Some roofers will replace your roof one section at a time to help with budgeting. You could do one section or half now and another next year and then you have a new roof.

b. Paint the exterior. Paint on home exteriors in Arizona typically last 7-10 years. So, if you’re nearing that timeframe, this might be a good time to re-paint and maintain your stucco or whatever siding finish your home has. Paint helps to maintain your home by preventing moisture to get into the siding. Paint isn’t just to look pretty, but is integral to protecting wood overhangs, fascia and the entire exterior.

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Our agents write often to give you the latest insights on owning a home or property in the Chattanooga area.

Testimonials

Diane, along with several of her other team members, Shannon, Collin and Cassie, went above and beyond to help us find our dream home. They were very patient and listened to what our needs and wants were in a home. They are all very knowledgeable and kept us informed throughout the entire process. Thank you so much EVANS GROUP!!

Kyle and Danyel

I have known Collin Rogers for many years and knew that whatever company he works for, is the place for me. He kept promises, thought about me, my wants and needs, even slowed us down a bit when we were too eager.
Collin Rogers is partner with
Barry & Diane Evans | Evans & Friends

Angie & Melissa

Collin was right there, taking notes, making sure all my questions were answered-if he couldn’t, he would find the answer, and get right back to me. I couldn’t have asked for a more attentive, reliable and conscientious realtor.
Collin Rogers is Partner with Barry Evans | Evans & Friends

Barbara

Collin has helped us purchase three homes now (more than we intended). We have always enjoyed working with him from the looking to buying stage. He is very patient and an all around nice guy. We have a great deal of confidence in Collin and the Evans Group in general. Keep up the good work!
Collin Rogers is Partner with
Barry & Diane Evans | Evans & Friends

David

A special thanks to Mike Machaskee for his outstanding job to help me find a home. He helped me look for over 3 years and countless homes. I now consider Mike a friend.
Mike Machaskee is a Realtor Partner for Barry & Diane Evans | The Evans Group

Jeremiah

Barry and Diane Evans and their team were friendly, easy to work with, efficient and prompt. Being new to Chattanooga, from out of state, we felt that Collin really listened to our wants and needs, and was very patient during the process.
Collin Rogers is partner with
Barry & Diane Evans | Evans & Friends

Chris & Jennifer

I felt very comfortable working to find the right house with Shannon. I also knew I could call & ask her opinion on anything. when I was struggling with the finance staff Shannon would step in and push to get answers & make sure that I was getting the credit information. When the interest rate did not get locked & rate went up she was very helpful in assisting me to fight to get it fixed.
Shannon Wilson is a Buyer’s Agent with Barry & Diane Evans | The Evans Group

Grace

My experience buying a home was an absolute joy! I had heard about other companies and the horror some of our friends experienced. Collin Rogers, our agent, was entirely dedicated to finding us what we were looking for in a new home. He offered advice when we really needed it, was a great listener, and above all, he was always available! We even closed a week early. We are “sold” on Collin & KW!
Collin Rogers is Partner with
Barry & Diane Evans | Evans & Friends

Angie

Diane Evans was on the ball with her services. Diane was very effective with great advice, right time and right place. Diane was working all hours and always available. She was knowledgeable, honest and straightforward, the kind of professionals I enjoy working with.

Julia

I could see the experience held within The Evans Group was a great asset to me as I sold my house. They knew what to do in each circumstance. I was impressed with their knowledge of the real estate business. At the end of the day. that is what you want with your real estate agent!
Cathy is a Buyer’s Agent for Barry & Diane Evans | The Evans Group.